Mercedes-Benz S-Class Facelift 2026 Debuts With MB.OS, AI MBUX and Advanced Driver Assistance

On the occasion of celebrating 140 years since the invention of the automobile, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class Facelift has been revealed as the most extensive upgrade ever carried out within one generation of the brand’s flagship luxury saloon. The update brings more than 2,700 newly developed or re-engineered components, reinforcing its position at the top of the global luxury sedan segment.
Exterior design evolves with illuminated identity
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class Facelift introduces a noticeably refreshed exterior that enhances both presence and brand recognition. The illuminated front grille is now around 20 percent larger, while an optionally illuminated Mercedes star on the bonnet appears for the first time. DIGITAL LIGHT headlamps adopt twin-star signatures and advanced micro-LED technology.
Key exterior updates include:

• Approximately 40 percent higher light output with reduced energy consumption

• Redesigned rear lamps featuring three chrome-framed star elements

• Enhanced visual width and night-time visibility

MB.OS becomes the digital backbone
At the core of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class Facelift is the all-new Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), a dedicated vehicle supercomputer that manages every electronic domain. The architecture supports continuous over-the-air updates, ensuring features and software evolve throughout the vehicle’s lifecycle.
AI-powered MBUX enters its fourth generation
The fourth-generation MBUX system brings conversational intelligence into everyday driving. The AI-based virtual assistant integrates large language models, enabling natural dialogue, contextual understanding, and short-term memory for ongoing interactions.
The standard MBUX Superscreen features:

• A 14.4-inch central touchscreen

• A 12.3-inch passenger display under a continuous glass surface

Rear-seat digital luxury expands
Rear passengers benefit from larger 13.1-inch displays as part of the high-end rear seat entertainment package. Integrated HD cameras enable video conferencing while on the move, supporting Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Webex, making the rear cabin a mobile executive workspace.
Driver assistance reaches next level
The MB.DRIVE assistance suite receives substantial upgrades, supported by a comprehensive sensor setup including cameras, radar, and ultrasonic sensors. MB.DRIVE ASSIST PRO enables point-to-point automated driving in dense urban traffic conditions, initially introduced in China, followed by the US, subject to regulatory approvals.
Interior comfort and climate innovation
Inside, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class Facelift focuses on refined comfort and advanced climate management. A redesigned instrument panel and centre console improve ergonomics, while wireless charging now supports two devices simultaneously.
Comfort and air-quality innovations include:

• Heated seat belts warming up to 44°C

• Digital Vent Control with automatic airflow adjustment

• An electric air filter refreshing cabin air roughly every 90 seconds

Powertrain portfolio updated
The powertrain lineup continues to offer a broad range of electrified and combustion options. Updated six-cylinder and V8 petrol and diesel engines are joined by advanced plug-in hybrid variants.
Highlights include:

• M 177 Evo V8 delivering 395 kW (537 hp) and 750 Nm

• Plug-in hybrids offering around 100 km of electric driving range

Intelligent suspension and agility enhancements
Suspension technology remains a core strength of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class Facelift. Standard AIRMATIC air suspension and optional E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL adapt damping in advance using Car-to-X data shared between vehicles.
Rear-axle steering is now standard at 4.5 degrees, with an optional 10-degree setup reducing the turning circle by nearly two metres in long-wheelbase variants.
MANUFAKTUR personalisation reaches new scale
The MANUFAKTUR Made to Measure programme expands significantly, offering more than 150 exterior colours and over 400 interior colour options. Two new standard finishes debut with this update: black sparkling with glass flakes and verdesilver magno in a matte finish.
Safety and protection advancements
Safety remains a central focus, with an adaptive restraint system incorporating PRE-SAFE® Impulse belt pretensioners and up to 15 airbags. The S 680 GUARD 4MATIC achieves VR10 certification, representing the highest civilian protection level and is powered by a 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine.
Production of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class Facelift begins at the Sindelfingen Factory 56 facility, with customer orders opening from 30 January 2026. In Germany, the S 350 d 4MATIC Saloon is priced from €121,356.20, while private leasing options start at €1,020.00 per month.